2017 Ford Fusion S — Carivo review carivo.co
Sedan

2017 Ford Fusion S

Independent review & score by Carivo

Price Range $21,912–$29,099
Fuel Economy 20 MPG
Seating 5 passengers
Category Sedan
Est. Annual Fuel $2,625/yr

Key Specifications — 2017 Ford Fusion S

Seating Capacity5 passengers
Body StyleSedan
Base Price$21,912–$29,099

Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.

About the 2017 Ford Fusion S

The 2017 Ford Fusion S is a sedan that earns a Carivo score of 7.2/10 — rated Good. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 7.7/10, while Performance at 6.3/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional sedan — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.

Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability comes in at 7.4/10 — above average, with owner data showing fewer issues than the segment mean. It's not flawless, but it's a dependable choice for most buyers. Safety lands at 7.7/10 — solid scores across crash testing with a reasonable standard safety package, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard.

Performance at 6.3/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 6.7/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.

Priced from $21,912–$29,099, 20 MPG, seating 5, the Ford Fusion S sits in the budget-friendly tier of the sedan market. At 7.6/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 9 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.

Our take: The 2017 Ford Fusion S is a passable sedan but not a standout one. Weaknesses in technology and performance hold it back from being a strong recommendation. It may suit buyers with specific needs it serves well, but we'd encourage comparing at least two or three higher-scored alternatives before deciding.

Carivo scores are built from NHTSA crash-test results, EPA fuel-economy figures, manufacturer-published specifications, and long-term owner reliability data. Every score is reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →

Pros & Cons — 2017 Ford Fusion S

✓ What it does well

  • Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
  • Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
  • Accessible entry price makes it one of the more affordable options in the category

✗ Where it falls short

  • Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
  • Performance is a genuine liability — well below class rivals and worth factoring into any decision
  • Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
  • Fuel economy at 20 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly

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